Yellow Jewelweed, Yellow Touch-Me-Not
impatiens pallida
Also known as: ["Yellow Jewelweed","Yellow Touch-Me-Not","Spotted Touch-Me-Not"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to eastern North America, known for its yellow, spurred flowers and its traditional use in soothing poison ivy rashes.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus: | Impatiens |
| Botanical Name: | Impatiens pallida |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–8 weeks during growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 4–6 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn; keep in shaded areas during intense afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light in hot climates; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
Soil
moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from drafty areas; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize less in winter; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist medium.
- Keep in indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat-based mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape for better light exposure.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity and water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Impatiens pallida. The saponins in the plant can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Impatiens pallida can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicImpatiens pallida contains saponins which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild discomfort and is not considered life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Impatiens pallida toxic to pets?
A: No, Impatiens pallida is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Yellow Jewelweed attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Impatiens pallida grow in shade?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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